Security plans now in place ahead of Indy’s fireworks show

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As thousands of Hoosiers make plans to watch the Fourth of July fireworks show in downtown Indianapolis this week, pubic safety officials are mapping out security plans to keep everyone safe.

The Freedom Blast Fireworks Show is set for Thursday evening at 10 p.m. The event brings thousands out to downtown every year.

Since the Boston Bombings, security has become a big topic for events and this year’s Independence Day is no different. Indianapolis Homeland Security Director Gary Coons told Fox59 that spectators will see an increased police presence.

“You’ll see officers out patrolling on bicycles, motorcycles, in cars or on foot. You’ll also see the horses out,” said Coons. “This event’s a lot different than any other event in the sense that it’s wide open.”

It’s also a national holiday and Coons is well aware that can make it a more attractive target for terrorists.

“We look at what’s happening across the country, across the world, see what those that want to cause harm are doing or have done and make sure that we fill those gaps up,” explained Coons.

He said he has not heard any alarming intelligence or gotten any credible threats yet. However, Homeland Security officials have asked downtown businesses to be vigilant on the holiday and look out for any suspicious activity.

He also wants spectators to pay close attention to their surroundings and bring a safety plan to the show.

“If something goes wrong where you’re at, how will you get your family out? How will you get them out safely?”

If you can’t make it to the fireworks show downtown, Fox59 will carry the show live on-air and online.